As a senior and team leading scorer, Anne Beenders knows this season will be a process for her and the rest of her Northampton teammates. Beenders is one of three returning starters from a 6-16 team a year ago.

“I [felt] as the season progresses, we will become more comfortable with each other on the court and trust each other more,” she stated. “I also believe we need to work on our communication on defense and consistently playing at 110% the whole game.

“I am excited for this season because I think we are able to surprise some teams and make it farther than last year.”

The Kids began the season 0-2, but they rebounded with wins over Bangor (60-43) and East Stroudsburg North (59-23). The early ups and downs have been a sign of things to come as the girls are currently 8-8 after a win over Whitehall (see below).

Beenders believes there can be a springboard for their games the rest of the season.

“I think it’s pretty big,” said Beenders of their early victories after an 0-2 start. “Those wins have given us more confidence and trust with in each other I believe.

“If we can play how we have been playing, I think only good things can come for the team.”

Head coach Jeff Jacksits sees Beenders’ drive and determination wearing off on her teammates.

“Anne has been doing her usual, 100 miles per hour all game,” stated Jacksits. “I see her teammates realizing this and how they have started to improve their own game. Teams will begin to start to take her out of the game so they understand that they will have to adjust their own style and pace.”

Jacksits also has seen his team begin to take the next step.

“We were very pleased with our effort [recently],” he added. “I see a lot of improvement and the chemistry is starting to develop. It’s a work in progress but the coaches hard pleased with the effort they have made to keep getting better.”